I hope this isn't too far afield, but I'll take the chance in order for the CW ops here looking for a new challenge to hear about it.
I do NOT want to start a long thread about the value of CW and emergency nets. I DO want to pass along some information about a gang who isn't just talking, but who are doing something about it: the gang at the National Emergency Radio Network (NREN). Jim Wades at NREN is asking for more participation from CW ops who want to get involved, up close and personal. Most importantly, you do NOT have to be an experienced CW "hotshot" to be a valuable participant. Here's what Jim has to say: ---------------------------------- Are you tired of the unprofessional methods heard during disaster operations? Numerous radio amateurs have complained about the lack of professionalism present on various SSB nets during Hurricane Katrina. While many of the organizations sponsoring these nets have the best intentions, the fact remains than an alternative is needed. The answer to these problems is simple: CW The Amateur Radio response to Hurricane Katrina was problematic for several reasons: The lack of VHF coverage and repeaters, many of which were damaged or destroyed, severely handicapped most ARES operators who had come to rely extensively on VHF-FM. Few HF phone operators in the disaster area could get up and running without access to generators or the gasoline to run them. Radio amateurs were unskilled in the use of proper message formats and emergency communications methods. NREN does not wish to compete with voice nets, many of which are doing the best they can. Likewise, we do not wish to replace existing ARES programs, which serve a valuable local purpose. Rather, our goal is to recruit CW operators who wish to be properly trained and prepared to provide real, professional grade emergency communications when the time comes. CW offers many advantages for disaster communications. Here are some facts: CW Nets typically clear traffic three to four times faster than voice nets. A simple, battery operated CW transceiver operating at 10-watts will have the same reliability as a SSB station operating at 50 to 100-watts. This means a CW operator can establish and maintain communications for days regardless of the availability of gasoline or AC mains. CW Nets are typically uncluttered by the many inexperienced operators who swoop down on unsuspecting voice nets only to clutter-up operations. Portable CW equipment is simple, reliable, and consumes less power than digital stations requiring notebook computers, printers, and other peripherals. How can you get involved? Whether you are a CW operator, or you simply wish to become one, NREN is developing a program to properly train radio amateurs to effectively handle emergency communications via CW. Our program will include practice broadcasts with simulated messages, regular nets, periodic emergency drills, and a periodic electronic newsletter with training information. Our goal is not to compete with existing ARES, RACES or NTS programs, but rather to compliment them with a quality grade of service. We simply wish to offer an alternative for the serious radio amateur; the radio amateur who wants to provide a professional grade of service without disruption from those that simply choose not to learn proper procedures and standard methods. NREN members will be encouraged to support local ARES and NTS groups, but we hope NREN will be a primary resource for you in time of emergency. Amateur Radio is full of competent CW operators including DX contesters, "rag chewers," and others who regularly use CW. These individuals can easily develop the skills necessary to provide a real service to their community if or when the "big one" hits. If you were disappointed with the "Keystone Cops" style of response so evident on 75 and 20-meter phone, register with NREN today! Join by sending a simple e-mail to the NREN General Manage at: [EMAIL PROTECTED] In the subject line, simply state "Join NREN" to be added to the list --------------------------------------- You can learn more about NREN at their website: http://68.43.101.244:81/nren/ 73, Ron AC7AC _______________________________________________ Elecraft mailing list Post to: Elecraft@mailman.qth.net You must be a subscriber to post to the list. Subscriber Info (Addr. Change, sub, unsub etc.): http://mailman.qth.net/mailman/listinfo/elecraft Help: http://mailman.qth.net/subscribers.htm Elecraft web page: http://www.elecraft.com
